The lens as a model for fibrotic disease

Fibrosis affects multiple organs and is associated with hyperproliferation, cell transdifferentiation, matrix modification and contraction. It is therefore essential to discover the key drivers of fibrotic events, which in turn will facilitate the development of appropriate therapeutic strategies. The lens is an elegant experimental model to study the processes that give rise to fibrosis. The molecular and cellular organization of the lens is well defined and consequently modifications associated with fibrosis can be clearly assessed. Moreover, the avascular and non-innervated properties of the lens allow effective in vitro studies to be employed that complement in vivo systems and relate to clinical data. Using the lens as a model for fibrosis has direct relevance to millions affected by lens disorders, but also serves as a valuable experimental tool to understand fibrosis per se.